S&W .38 Special

[ridenshoot]

Many years ago I realized that most of my 357 Magnum reloads were really just 38 +P level or slightly hotter loads.  The next revelation was, I could usually find 38 Special revolvers cheaper than 357 magnums; including this Smith & Wesson model 315 NightGuard.  It's rated for +P ammo, weighs 24 ounces, has a wonderful set of sights, holds 6 rounds and was dirt cheap because, as the gun shop owner said, "no one wants a 38."  I sanded down a set of Altamont grips to fit my hand and added several coats of boiled linseed oil to them.



If I'm carrying a revolver, most of the time this is it.  Those are 158 grain +P LSWC hollow points.

[AxeHandle]

"What is that in the front sight dovetail? A blast shield of sorts for the objective lens?"


Ever seen the NRA Action Pistol Barricade Match? Pretty much an X count match. They hold the barrel against the barricade frame with their support hand. Note that there not only is the odd addition on the end of the barrel but there is also extra clearance cut in the barrel between the scope and addition. The idea is that you don't want your hand to block the scope or finger to wander over the muzzle in the middle of a string of fire. Just an NRA action load but... Fingers don't hold up well when shot...